Microcystin toxicosis in cattle due to overgrowth of blue-green algae.
Toxicosis due to microcystin-containing blue-green algae has been sporadically reported in a variety of animal species. Most reports of intoxication involve algal blooms during periods of warm temperatures and abundant sunshine in the spring or early summer. A case of blue-green algae toxicosis with lesions attributable to toxins from Microcystis aeruginosa is described in 4 cattle from southern Georgia during November. The case was unusual in that characteristic hepatic necrosis was accompanied by severe mesenteric edema and peritoneal effusion. In addition, weather conditions and location were not expected to be conducive to algal blooms. Rapid diagnosis and identification of the probable source of intoxication allowed the owner to move the herd away from the affected pond. This action limited losses to only the 4 cattle.
Frazier
K
K
Veterinary Diagnostic and Investigational Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Tifton 37193, USA.
Colvin
B
B
Styer
E
E
Hullinger
G
G
Garcia
R
R
D000818:Animals; D001202:Ascitic Fluid / Q000662:veterinary; D001427:Bacterial Toxins / Q000633:toxicity*; D002417:Cattle; D002418:Cattle Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000382:microbiology; D000458:Cyanobacteria; D004487:Edema / Q000662:veterinary; D019446:Endotoxemia / Q000662:veterinary*; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000633:toxicity; D005618:Fresh Water; D005845:Georgia; D008103:Liver Cirrhosis / Q000662:veterinary; D008387:Marine Toxins; D052998:Microcystins; D010456:Peptides, Cyclic / Q000633:toxicity*; D014871:Water Microbiology
D001427:Bacterial Toxins; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors; D008387:Marine Toxins; D052998:Microcystins; D010456:Peptides, Cyclic; C057862:cyanoginosin LR